Living in London often means long commutes, unpredictable weather, and—let’s face it—a serious case of FOMO (fear of missing out), especially when our Instagram feeds are full of wine influencers soaking up the sun across Europe. The contrast can be brutal. The other day, I found myself daydreaming about booking a last-minute flight to Italy, losing track of time in Tuscany, following a wine trail filled with unforgettable food and, of course, spectacular wine.
Why Italy? I don’t really know—but I’ll blame my Italian heritage. Italy is my eternal, platonic love. One day, don’t be surprised if I pack my bags and move there for good!
In my daydream, I’d fly into Florence for a couple of days of wandering, espresso in hand, before heading off into the heart of Tuscany. With its rolling hills, golden vineyards, and timeless medieval towns, Tuscany remains one of the world’s top summer destinations for wine lovers.
A Toast to the Past: Tuscany’s Rich Wine Heritage
Tuscany’s deep-rooted connection to wine stretches back over 3,000 years to the Etruscans—long before the Romans entered the scene. Today, it’s one of Italy’s most celebrated wine regions, producing iconic wines like Chianti, Brunello di Montalcino, and Vino Nobile di Montepulciano. What makes Tuscany truly special is the balance of tradition and innovation—ancient methods paired with modern winemaking techniques that keep the region’s wine culture alive and thriving.
Best Wine Routes to Explore in Tuscany (Summer 2025)
There’s truly no better way to discover Tuscany’s wine culture than by exploring its famous Strade del Vino—wine roads that take you through picture-perfect landscapes, historic estates, and some of the best wine tasting experiences in Europe.
Strada del Vino Chianti Classico:
Running between Florence and Siena, this iconic route is ideal for a scenic summer road trip. Expect charming villages, sun-drenched vineyards, and family-run wineries where Chianti Classico flows alongside pecorino cheese and crusty bread dipped in local olive oil.Strada del Brunello (Brunello Road):
Centred around the hilltop town of Montalcino, this route is all about bold reds and panoramic views. Here you can sip Brunello di Montalcino, one of Italy’s most prestigious wines, aged in oak and packed with character.
Strada del Vino Nobile di Montepulciano: Perfect for combining culture and wine, this route offers elegant tastings in underground cellars and stunning Renaissance architecture. Don’t miss the opportunity to try Vino Nobile di Montepulciano, known for its structure and balance.
Bolgheri Wine Trail: This coastal route is a must for fans of Super Tuscans. Home to producers like Sassicaia and Ornellaia, the Bolgheri area blends maritime breezes, pine forests, and world-class wines made from international grape varieties.
Must-Try Wines and Food Pairings for Summer 2025
With the Tuscan sun ripening the grapes, summer 2025 is set to deliver some remarkable bottles. Here are five wines to look out for—and the dishes that elevate them.
Vermentino di Toscana: Crisp, citrusy and made for sunshine. Best enjoyed with seafood linguine, grilled calamari or a fresh caprese salad.
Rosato di Toscana: A dry Tuscan rosé that’s fruity, lively and ideal for al fresco dining. Pair it with cold cuts, marinated olives, and bruschetta for the perfect picnic spread.
Chianti Classico Riserva: Layered and complex with notes of cherry and leather. This wine demands bistecca alla fiorentina, aged pecorino, or pappardelle with wild boar ragu.
Brunello di Montalcino: Elegant, full-bodied and endlessly age-worthy. Think osso buco, mushroom risotto, or truffle pasta for a luxurious match.
5. Bolgheri Superiore: Rich and intense, often Cabernet- and Merlot-based. It shines next to grilled lamb, roast duck, or a decadent beef stew.
Wine Lover’s Trivia: Tuscany’s Hidden Gems
• The black rooster (Gallo Nero) symbol of Chianti Classico comes from a 13th-century rivalry between Florence and Siena.
• Tuscany was one of the first Italian regions to adopt DOC regulations in the 1960s, protecting the quality and origin of its wines.
• Many Tuscan wineries are based in historic castles and Renaissance villas, with cellars that go back hundreds of years.
So, if you’re like me daydreaming of a summer gets away that blends culture, cuisine and the finest wines under the Tuscan sun – 2025 is the perfect vintage to start your journey. Salute!